Carry bag apparatus configured for modular charging

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus comprising a bag shaped for retaining one or more re-chargeable electronic devices, and a rechargeable battery unit that is removably attached to the bag. The battery unit provides power for powering and charging one or more electronic devices. The bag comprises at least one electrical connection. The battery unit provides power for powering and charging an electronic device via an electrical connection interconnecting the battery unit with the electronic device. The apparatus further comprises at least one induction charging unit that wirelessly provides power for powering and charging an electronic device positioned within proximity of the induction charging unit. In one embodiment, the battery unit includes at least one on-board induction charging unit. In another embodiment, the bag further comprises at least one induction charging unit that may be wired or wirelessly connected with the battery unit.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 61/666,697, filed on Jun. 29, 2012, incorporatedherein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a portable charging system,in particular, to a carry bag apparatus for modular charging.

2. Description of Related Art

A portable charging system charges batteries utilized in re-chargeableportable electronic devices, such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops,portable media players, etc.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus comprising abag shaped for retaining one or more re-chargeable electronic devices,and a rechargeable battery unit that is removably attached to the bag.The battery unit provides power for powering and charging one or moreelectronic devices. The bag comprises at least one electricalconnection. The battery unit provides power for powering and charging anelectronic device via an electrical connection interconnecting thebattery unit with the electronic device. The apparatus further comprisesat least one induction charging unit that wirelessly provides power forpowering and charging an electronic device positioned within proximityof the induction charging unit. In one embodiment, the battery unitincludes at least one on-board induction charging unit. In anotherembodiment, the bag further comprises at least one induction chargingunit that may be wired or wirelessly connected with the battery unit.For example, an induction charging unit of the bag may receive powerfrom the battery unit via an electrical connection interconnecting theinduction charging unit with the battery unit. As another example, aninduction charging unit of the bag may wirelessly receive power from thebattery unit via inductive coupling.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentinvention will become understood with reference to the followingdescription, appended claims, and accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of a carrybag apparatus configured for modular charging, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates the bottom base of the bag, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates the carry bag apparatus and an induction chargingstation for charging the battery pack, in accordance with an embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the electrical components of thecarry bag apparatus in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 5A is a block diagram illustrating electronic components of thecarry bag apparatus, the lighting and display system, and an electronicdevice, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5B is a block diagram illustrating electronic components of thecarry bag apparatus, an induction charging unit of the carry bag, and anelectronic device, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates the interior region of the bag, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates an electronic device retained within a compartment ofthe bag, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example electronic device disposed inside thecarry bag apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates the display unit attached to the carry bag, inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating electronic components of thelighting and display system, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example mounting system for mounting one or morelighting accessories to the carry bag, in accordance with an embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates a top perspective view of an example mountingmember, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates a top perspective view of an example lightingaccessory, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates the example lighting accessory in FIG. 13interlocked with the example mounting member in FIG. 12, in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating the mounting system, inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Preferred embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatuscomprising a bag shaped for retaining one or more re-chargeableelectronic devices, and a rechargeable battery unit that is removablyattached to the bag. The battery unit provides power for powering andcharging one or more electronic devices. The bag of a preferredembodiment further comprises at least one electrical connection. Thebattery unit within the preferred embodiment provides power for poweringand charging an electronic device via an electrical connectioninterconnecting the battery unit with the electronic device. In apreferred embodiment, the apparatus further comprises at least oneinduction charging unit that wirelessly provides power for powering andcharging an electronic device positioned within proximity of theinduction charging unit. In a preferred embodiment, the battery unitincludes at least one on-board induction charging unit. In furtherpreferred embodiments, the bag further includes at least one inductioncharging unit that may be wired or wirelessly connected with the batteryunit. For example, an induction charging unit of the bag may receivepower from the battery unit via an electrical connection interconnectingthe induction charging unit with the battery unit. As another example,an induction charging unit of the bag may wirelessly receive power fromthe battery unit via inductive coupling.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of a carrybag apparatus 400 configured for modular charging, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. The carry bag apparatus 400 comprises a bag410, and a modular battery power source (“battery pack”) 450.

The carry bag 410 is shaped to retain and transport multiple items, suchas portable electronic devices 200 (e.g., mobile telephones, tablets,mobile lighting equipment/apparatuses, mobile media players, laptops,etc), wallets, etc. In one embodiment, the carry bag 410 has a bottombase 420 (FIG. 2) and multiple walls 412. The carry bag 410 has a frontwall 412A, a rear wall 412B (FIG. 6), a first side wall 412C, and asecond side wall 412D (FIG. 6). The first side wall 412C is joined withthe front wall 412A and the rear wall 412B. The second side wall 412D isjoined with the front wall 412A and the rear wall 412B. Each wall 412has an exterior side 41A and an interior side 41B.

The carry bag 410 further includes a top opening 415. The top opening415 allows access to an interior region 410A of the carry bag 410. Forexample, an electronic device 200 may be deposited into, or retrievedfrom, the interior region 410A of the carry bag 410 via the top opening415. The top opening 415 may be closed/partially closed using fasteners416, such as magnetic fasteners, zip fasteners, buttons, snaps, hooks,and the like.

The carry bag 410 further comprises multiple compartments (e.g.,pockets, sleeves) 411. Each compartment 411 is secured to either anexterior side 41A or an interior side 41B of a wall 412. Eachcompartment 411 may be used to hold one or more items, such as portableelectronic devices, wallets, etc.

The carry bag 410 further comprises one or more carrying handles 417.Each handle 417 is secured to a wall 412 of the carry bag 410.

In one embodiment, each side wall 412C, 412D may include a closableopening 433 through which an item, such as portable electronic device,may be slid through into the interior region 410A of the carry bag 410.

The carry bag apparatus 400 further includes at least one electricalconnection 45. As described later herein, the battery pack 450 powers onone or more electronic devices 200 retained within the carry bag 410and/or within proximity of the carry bag 410, and also charges a batteryunit 333 of one or more electronic devices 200 retained within the carrybag 410 and/or within proximity of the carry bag 410. For example, oneor more electronic devices 200 retained within the carry bag 410 mayreceive power from the battery pack 450 via an electrical connection 45interwoven into a wall 412 of the carry bag 410.

The carry bag apparatus 400 further includes at least one inductioncharging unit 413. For example, the battery pack 450 may include atleast one on-board induction charging unit 413. As another example, thecarry bag 410 may further include at least one induction charging unit413 that is wired or wirelessly connected with the battery pack 450. Aninduction charging unit 413 of the carry bag 410 may receive power fromthe battery pack 450 via an electrical connection 45 or via inductivecoupling. Each induction charging unit 413 of the carry bag apparatus400 wirelessly provides power for powering and charging an electronicdevice 200 positioned within proximity of the induction charging unit413.

The battery pack 450 is modularly attachable to the bottom base 420(FIG. 6) of the carry bag 410. A user may carry the carry bag 410 withor without the battery pack 450.

The battery pack 450 may come in different colors. A user may replacethe battery pack 450 attached to the carry bag 410 with another batterypack 450 of a different color, shapes or sizes for utilitarian oraesthetic reasons. The battery pack 450 may also come in differentsizes. A user may minimize the weight of the carry bag 410 by attachinga smaller-sized battery pack 450 to the carry bag 410. A user may alsomaximize the charge held by the battery pack 450 by attaching alarger-sized battery pack 450 to the carry bag 410. If the battery lifeof the battery pack 450 is reduced after many charge cycles, a user mayreplace the battery pack 450 with another battery pack 450.

The carry bag apparatus 400 further comprises a lighting and displaysystem 480. The lighting and display system 480 comprises a light strip418 that may be detachably affixed to a handle 417, the interior region410A, or an exterior region 410B of the carry bag 410 (e.g., an exteriorside 41A of a wall 412 of the carry bag 410). The light strip 418 mayinclude a plurality of lighting elements 419. As described in detaillater herein, the lighting elements 419 of the light strip 418 may bepowered on to illuminate the interior region 410A of the carry bag 410.The lighting elements 419 may also function as indicator lights.

In one embodiment, the lighting and display system 480 further comprisesa graphic display unit 600 (FIG. 9). As described in detailed laterherein, the display unit 600 may be programmed to display graphicalimagery 50 (FIG. 9), such as a design, a logo (e.g., a logo selectedfrom multiple available pre-programmed logos), video, animation, etc.

FIG. 2 illustrates the bottom base 420 of the carry bag 410, inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention. The bottom base 420 hasone or multiple attachment mechanisms 421 for detachably attaching thebattery pack 450 to the bottom base 420, and maintaining the batterypack 450 in place. The attachment mechanisms 421 may include fasteners422, such as screw-like fasteners, snaps, studs, buckles, clasps,buttons, treads, and the like.

The attachment mechanisms 421 may also include other mechanical and/ormagnetic connections for maintaining the battery pack 450 in place, suchas magnetic holders 423. Each of these attachment mechanisms 421 may beused alone or in combination with other attachment mechanisms 421.

The bottom base 420 further includes a power socket/coupler 424 forreceiving power from the battery pack 450. The power received from thebattery pack 450 is used to power and/or charge items retained withinthe carry bag 410. The coupler 424 may also receive power via a physicalconnection (e.g., electrical cable) from a power supply source, such asan A/C power socket.

FIG. 3 illustrates the carry bag apparatus 400 and an induction chargingstation 500 for charging the battery pack 450, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. The battery pack 450 may be inductivelycharged. The carry bag apparatus 400 includes an inductive couplingreceiver component (“receiver”) 451 (FIG. 4). When the battery pack 450is attached to the bottom base 420 of the carry bag 410, the batterypack 450 may be inductively charged by setting the carry bag 410 on topof an induction charging station 500. The induction charging station 500may be placed on a supporting surface 550, such as a table top.

The battery pack 450 may also be charged by detaching the battery pack450 from the bottom base 420 of the carry bag 410 and setting thebattery pack 450 on top of the induction charging station 500. In thismanner, a user may continue using the carry bag 410 while the batterypack 450 is charging.

Inductive coupling replaces the need to physically connect (e.g., viaelectrical cables) the carry bag 410 or the battery pack 450 to a powersupply source.

In another embodiment, the interior region 410A of the carry bag 410includes a receptor compartment (“receptor”) 488 (FIG. 6) formaintaining the battery pack 450. The battery pack 450 may be removedfrom the receptor 488 for charging or replacement. The receptor 488 maybe disposed at the bottom base 420 of the carry bag 410 or on a wall 412of the carry bag 410. The battery pack 450 may be inductively charged bysetting an induction charging station 500 adjacent to or within closeproximity of the receptor 488.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating electrical components of anexample carry bag apparatus 400, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. The carry bag apparatus 400 includes an inductive couplingreceiver component (“receiver”) 451.

The receiver 451 comprises an inductor such as an induction coil orother magnetic receptive means 451A. The receiver 451 enables thebattery pack 450 to wirelessly receive electrical energy from anotherinductor (e.g., an induction coil or other magnetic power transmissionmeans 502 of an induction charging station 500).

As stated above, the carry bag apparatus 400 comprises one or moreinduction charging units 413. In one embodiment, the battery pack 450comprises at least one on-board induction charging unit 413. Eachinduction charging unit 413 of the battery pack 450 comprises aninductive coupling transmitter component (“transmitter”) 462. Thetransmitter 462 comprises an inductor such as an induction coil 462A.The transmitter 462 enables the wireless transmission of electricalenergy to another inductor (e.g., an induction coil 315 (FIG. 5A) of anelectronic device 200 disposed within the carry bag 410 and/or withinproximity of the carry bag 410).

In one embodiment, the receiver 451 is disposed at a bottom side 450A(FIG. 1) of the battery pack 450, and an induction charging unit 413 ofthe battery pack 450 is disposed at a top side 450B (FIG. 3) of thebattery pack 450. The induction coil 451A of the receiver 451 may beinductively coupled by an inductor coming within proximity of the bottomside 450A of the battery pack 450. The induction coil 462A of thetransmitter 462 may inductively couple another inductor coming withinproximity of the top side 450B of the battery pack 450. For example, thebattery pack 450 may be inductively coupled by setting the battery pack450 on top of an induction charging station 500.

The carry bag apparatus 400 further comprises a controller 460, a powerinput/output (I/O) driver 454, a surge protection unit 464, and a switch455. A user may utilize the switch 455 to enable or disable thetransmission of power from the battery pack 450 to an electronic device200 maintained within the carry bag 410 and/or within proximity of thecarry bag 410. When the transmission of power is disabled, the power ofthe battery pack 450 is conserved. In one embodiment, the transmissionof power may be enabled for only a subset of electronic devices 200maintained within the carry bag 410 and/or within proximity of the carrybag 410.

The power I/O driver 454 controls the power socket/coupler 424 of thecarry bag 410. The surge protection unit 464 is used to preventtransients and other power spikes from damaging an electronic device 200powered/charged by the carry bag 410.

The controller 460 distributes power to the electrical connections 45and the transmitter 462 when the transmission of power is enabled.

Also shown in FIG. 4 is an induction charging station 500 inductivelycharging the receiver 451. The induction charging station 500 comprisesan inductive coupling transmitter component (“transmitter”) 501.Electric current flowing through an induction coil 502 of thetransmitter 501 creates a magnetic field 340. The magnetic field 340created induces an electric current (i.e., voltage) in the inductioncoil 451A. The electric current induced provides enough electricalenergy to charge the battery pack 450. The energy stored within thecharged battery pack 450 in turn provides enough power to operate and/orcharge an electronic device 200 within the carry bag 410 and/or withinproximity of the carry bag 410.

FIG. 5A is a block diagram illustrating electronic components of thecarry bag apparatus 400, the lighting and display system 480, and anelectronic device 200, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. As shown in FIG. 5A, the transmitter 462 of the carry bagapparatus 400 is inductively charging an electronic device 200maintained within the carry bag 410.

As stated above, the lighting and display system 480 includes the lightstrip 418. The light strip 418 may be detachably attached at differentlocations of the carry bag 410, such as along a carrying handle 417, toan interior side 41B of a wall 412, or to an exterior side 41A of a wall412. The lighting elements 419 affixed to the light strip 418 maycomprise, for example, semiconductor LEDs or organic LEDs. The lightingelements 419 of the light strip 418 may be powered on via an electricalconnection 45. The lighting elements 419 may be turned on to illuminatethe interior region 410A of the carry bag 410.

The lighting and display system 480 further includes a controller 470, alighting driver 471, and an A/V interface 474. The A/V interface 474 maycomprise a graphic display, alphanumeric and directional keypads, orother types of electronic or manual data input means. A user may utilizethe A/V interface 474 to turn on/off the lighting elements 419, andset/program the lighting effects functions of the lighting elements 419.In a further embodiment, the user is provided an application (app) orprogram module which allows the user to remotely control the lightingelements 419 of the light strip 418 or other functionality of the carrybag apparatus 400 as described herein.

The controller 470 distributes power received via an electricalconnection 45 to the lighting elements 419. The lighting driver 471controls the lighting effect functions of the lighting elements 419,such as, for example, dimming, selective activation, pulsation, colortemperature, and so on. The lighting elements 419 may also be used asindicator lights.

In one embodiment, the lighting elements 419 may be programmed tofunction as indicators for one or more electronic devices 200 within thecarry bag 410 and/or within proximity of the carry bag 410 (e.g., anelectronic device 200 held by, or retained within clothing of, a user ofthe carry bag 410). For example, the lighting elements 419 of the lightstrip 418 may exchange data with the electronic devices 200 usingBluetooth communication or other forms of wireless communication. Thelighting and display system 480 further includes a Bluetooth module 473.The Bluetooth module 473 includes a wireless transceiver 473A configuredto wirelessly exchange information with a Bluetooth enabled device usingBluetooth communication. The transceiver 473A may wirelessly receiveBluetooth signals from an electronic device 200 that is in proximitywith the transceiver 473A (e.g., an electronic device 200 that isdisposed within the carry bag 410).

For example, the lighting elements 419 may be programmed to indicate thecharging levels of the battery pack 450 and one or more electronicdevices 200 within the carry bag 410 or within proximity of the carrybag 410. The colors/position of the lighting elements 419 may be used todifferentiate which electronic device 200/battery pack 450 a lightingelement 19 corresponds to. As another example, the lighting elements 419may be programmed to turn on when the transceiver 473A receivesBluetooth signals indicating that a user's electronic device 200 hasreceived an incoming call or an incoming message (e.g., text message,e-mail message). The lighting elements 419 may be used to alert the userof an incoming call/message even if the electronic device 200 is on muteor hidden from view (e.g., within the carry bag 410).

As stated above, the lighting and display system 480 may further includethe graphical display unit 600 (FIG. 9). The display unit 600 may beprogrammed to display graphical imagery 50, such as a design, a logo(e.g., a logo selected from multiple available pre-programmed logos),video, animation, etc. An embodiment of the graphical display unit 600is described further below in relation to FIGS. 9-10.

FIG. 5B is a block diagram illustrating electronic components of thecarry bag apparatus 400, an induction charging unit 413 of the carry bag410, and an electronic device 200, in accordance with an embodiment ofthe invention. As stated above, the carry bag apparatus 400 comprisesone or more induction charging units 413. In one embodiment, the carrybag 410 comprises at least one induction charging unit 413 that may bewired or wirelessly connected with the battery pack 450. For example, aninduction charging unit 413 of the carry bag 410 may receive power fromthe battery pack 450 via an electrical connection 45 interconnecting theinduction charging unit 413 with the battery pack 450.

As another example, an induction charging unit 413 of the carry bag 410may wirelessly receive power from the battery pack 450 via inductivecoupling. An induction charging unit 413 of the carry bag 410 maycomprise an inductive coupling receiver component (“receiver”) 465. Thereceiver 465 comprises an inductor such as an induction coil 466. Thereceiver 465 enables the induction charging unit 413 of the carry bag410 to wirelessly receive electrical energy from another inductor. Asshown in FIG. 5B, the receiver 465 is wirelessly receiving electricalenergy from the induction coil 462A of the battery pack 450.

Each induction charging unit 413 of the carry bag 410 wirelesslyprovides power for powering and charging an electronic device 200positioned within proximity of the induction charging unit 413.Specifically, an induction charging unit 413 of the carry bag 410further comprises an inductive coupling transmitter component(“transmitter”) 468. The transmitter 468 comprises an inductor such asan induction coil 469. The transmitter 468 enables the inductioncharging unit 413 of the carry bag 410 to wirelessly transmit electricalenergy to another inductor. As shown in FIG. 5B, the transmitter 468 isinductively charging an induction coil 315 of an electronic device 200disposed within the carry bag 410 and/or within proximity of the carrybag 410.

An induction charging unit 413 of the carry bag 410 may further comprisea controller 467 for distributing power to the transmitter 468 when thetransmission of power is enabled.

FIG. 6 illustrates the interior region 410A of the carry bag 410, inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention. As stated above, thecarry bag 410 includes multiple compartments 411. As shown in FIG. 6,multiple compartments 411 are attached to an interior side 41B of thefront wall 412A.

A portable electronic device 200 retained within a compartment 411 maywirelessly receive power from an induction charging unit 413 secured tothe compartment 411. Each induction charging unit 413 may be powered viaan electrical connection 45. The electrical connection 45 may supplypower from the battery pack 450 or a power supply source.

FIG. 7 illustrates an electronic device 200 retained within acompartment 411 of the carry bag 410, in accordance with an embodimentof the invention. As shown in FIG. 7, a compartment 411 is attached toan exterior side 41A of the front wall 412A. In one embodiment, acompartment 411 may be sized to receive an electronic device 200, suchas a tablet device (e.g., an iPad®).

The compartment 411 may be translucent/transparent and include aroll-away cover 411A. By rolling open the cover 411A, a user may accessthe electronic device 200 without removing the electronic device 200from the compartment 411. In one embodiment, the cover 411A interactswith the magnetic capabilities of the electronic device 200. Forexample, rolling open the cover 411A awakens the electronic device 200from sleep mode. Rolling close the cover 411A puts the electronic device200 in sleep mode.

An electronic device 200 retained within a compartment 411 may alsoreceive power via an electrical connection 45. The electrical connection45 may supply power from the battery pack 450 or a power supply source(e.g., an induction charging station 500). The power received may beenough to operate and/or charge the electronic device 200. A connector45A may be used to interconnect the electrical connection 45 with theelectronic device 200.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example electronic device 200 disposed inside thecarry bag apparatus 400, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. As shown in FIG. 8, the electronic device 200 is positionedwithin proximity of an induction charging unit 413 (e.g., the electronicdevice 200 is positioned directly above the induction charging unit413), thereby allowing the receiver 311 of the electronic device 200 towirelessly receive electrical energy from the induction charging unit413. The electrical energy wirelessly received charges the battery unit333 of the electronic device 200 and powers on the electronic device200. Therefore, the electronic device 200 may be used and charged at thesame time.

In one embodiment, an induction charging station 500 charges the batterypack 450 of the carry bag apparatus 400. The carry bag apparatus 400, inturn, inductively charges, via one or more induction charging units 413,multiple appliances such as an electronic device 200. Therefore, thepresent invention also allows for both the carry bag apparatus 400 andappliances within the carry bag apparatus 400 to be charged at the sametime.

A key aspect of the present invention is the ability to allow a firstinduction charging station to charge a portable battery/power storagedevice, and for the charged portable battery/power storage device tothen drive a second induction charging station that powers and/orcharges one or more electronic devices. This aspect of the presentinvention can be applied to other appliances and is shown in the form ofa carry bag only in its most applicable form. For example, in itsbroadest sense this aspect of the invention allows any first mobiledevice to be inductively charged, have the ability to be used itself aswell as having the ability to provide power to a second mobile device.It is further anticipated that the induction power received by the firstmobile device will also serve a second purpose of transmitting power tothe second mobile device, thereby removing the necessity of a secondinduction transmitter/receiver in the second mobile device. For example,a mobile tablet computer may be inductively charged, carried and thenprovide power to a mobile telephone.

In one embodiment, the carry bag apparatus 400 is a portable powersystem that allows for disc jockeys (DJs) to transport their discjockeying (DJ) equipment (e.g., mixing boards, tablet computers, effectslights, etc.) in the carry bag 410. The carry bag 410 is chargeable withpower from the battery pack 450. The DJ may power the DJ equipment fromthe carry bag 410 by setting the DJ equipment on the induction chargingunits 413 contained within the carry bag 410 and/or connecting the DJequipment to electrical connections 45 interwoven within the carry bag410.

FIG. 9 illustrates the graphical display unit 600 attached to the carrybag 410, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As statedabove, the lighting and display system 480 may further include thegraphical display unit 600 including a display screen 610.

The display unit 600 may be positioned anywhere on the carry bag 410.For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the display unit 600 is attached to anexterior side 41A of a wall 412. The shape and size of the displayscreen 610 may vary. In one embodiment, the display unit 600 may bedetachably affixed to the carry bag 410.

In one embodiment, the display screen 610 comprises a plurality oflighting elements 650. The lighting elements 650 may comprise, forexample, semiconductor light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or organic LEDs.Other light-emitting elements, such as light bulbs, lasers, or liquidcrystal display (LCD) panels, may also be used. The arrangement of thelighting elements 650 may vary.

The display screen 610 may be powered on via an electrical connection 45interwoven into a wall 412 of the carry bag 410.

In one embodiment, the display unit 600 further comprises atransparent/translucent cover plate that is fixedly but removablysecured to the display screen 610 to protect the lighting elements 650.

The display screen 610 of the display unit 600 may be programmed todisplay graphical imagery 50 such as a design, a shape, a logo (e.g., alogo selected from multiple available pre-programmed logos), a picture,a video, an animation, and other examples of graphical imagery. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 9, the display screen 610 may be programmed todisplay a heart-shaped logo.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating electronic components of thelighting and display system 480, in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. In one embodiment, a user may also utilize the A/V interface474 of the lighting and display system 480 to turn on/off the displayscreen 610 and set/program the display screen 610. In a furtherembodiment, the user is provided an application (app) or program modulewhich allows the user to remotely control the display screen 610 orother functionality of the carry bag apparatus 400 as described herein.

In one embodiment, the controller 470 may also distribute power receivedvia an electrical connection 45 to the display screen 610. Thecontroller 470 may be further configured to program the display screen610 to display graphical imagery 50 such as a design, a logo (e.g., alogo selected from multiple available pre-programmed logos), video,animation, etc.

In one embodiment, the controller 470 may maintain one or morepre-programmed graphical imagery 50, such as pre-programmed logos. Auser may utilize the A/V interface 474 to select a pre-programmedgraphical imagery 50 for display on the display screen 610.

In one embodiment, the lighting and display system 480 further comprisesa display driver 661 for controlling the display functions of thedisplay screen 610, such as, for example, dimming, selective activation,pulsation, color temperature, and so on.

In one embodiment, the display screen 610 may be programmed to displaygraphical imagery 50 provided by an electronic device 200 within thecarry bag 410 and/or within proximity of the carry bag 410 (e.g., anelectronic device 200 held by, or retained within clothing of, a user ofthe carry bag 410). For example, the display unit 600 may exchange datawith the electronic device 200 using Bluetooth communication or otherforms of wireless communication. In one embodiment, the transceiver 664of the Bluetooth module 663 may also wirelessly receive Bluetoothsignals targeting the display unit 600 from an electronic device 200that is within proximity of the transceiver 664 (e.g., an electronicdevice 200 that is disposed within the carry bag 410).

In one embodiment, the display unit 600 may be incorporated intoclothing, bags, accessories, wearable technology, etc.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example mounting system 700 for mounting one ormore lighting accessories 750 to the carry bag 410, in accordance withan embodiment of the invention. The mounting system 700 comprises atleast one mounting member 710 and at least one removable lightingaccessory 750.

A mounting member 710 may be positioned anywhere on the carry bag 410.For example, as shown in FIG. 11, a mounting member 710 may becountersunk within a wall 412 of the carry bag 410. The mounting member710 lies flush with, and does not protrude beyond, an exterior side 41Aof the wall 412. The shape and size of the mounting member 710 may vary.

The mounting member 710 comprises a plurality of lighting elements 715.The lighting elements 715 may be powered on via an electrical connection45 interwoven into a wall 412 of the carry bag 410. As described indetailed later herein, the mounting member 710 is adapted to engage andmate with a lighting accessory 750 to mount the lighting accessory 750on to the carry bag 410.

A lighting accessory 750 comprises a translucent portion 752 shaped toform graphical imagery 50, such as a logo, a shape, a design, a picture,etc. When the lighting accessory 750 mates with a mounting member 710,lighting elements 715 of the mounting member 710 illuminate thegraphical imagery 50 when the lighting elements 715 power on. The shapeof the translucent portion 752 may vary. For example, as shown in FIG.11, the translucent portion 752 may be shaped to form a heart-shapedlogo.

FIG. 12 illustrates a top perspective view of an example mounting member710, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, the mounting member 710 comprises a female connector 712.The female connector 712 includes a recess 712R. The recess 712R isshaped for receiving a removable lighting accessory 750 inserted intothe recess 712R.

An inner wall 716 of the female connector 712 has one or more mechanicalguides for engaging and mating with a lighting accessory 750 insertedinto the recess 712R. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the inner wall716 may include one or more locking portions 711 adapted to engage andmate with a mating portion 754 (FIG. 13) of a lighting accessory 750.The inner wall 716 may further include a plurality of axially extendingserrations (i.e., splines) 717. As described in detail later herein, theserrations 717 may engage and mate with a mating portion 755 (FIG. 13)of a lighting accessory 750. The mechanical guides of the mountingmember 710 may further include additional fasteners like screws, snaps,or treads that further mate the mounting member 710 with a lightingaccessory 750.

As stated above, the mounting member 710 includes a plurality oflighting elements 715. The placement and arrangement of the lightingelements 715 may vary. For example, in one embodiment, the lightingelements 715 are arranged around an inner periphery 713 of the mountingmember 710. The lighting elements 715 may comprise, for example,semiconductor light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or organic LEDs. Otherlight-emitting elements, such as light bulbs, lasers, or liquid crystaldisplay (LCD) panels, may also be used.

FIG. 13 illustrates a top perspective view of an example lightingaccessory 750, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, the lighting accessory 750 comprises a translucent portion752 and an opaque portion 751. Light from lighting elements 715 of amounting member 710 may radiate (i.e., penetrate) through thetranslucent portion 752 to illuminate graphical imagery 50 that thetranslucent portion 752 is shaped in the form of. Light from lightingelements 715, however, will not radiate (i.e., penetrate) through theopaque portion 751.

Each lighting accessory 750 comprises a male connector 753. The maleconnector 753 is adapted to engage and mate with a female connector 712of a mounting member 710. In one embodiment, the lighting accessory 750is mounted on to the carry bag 410 by inserting the male connector 753of the lighting accessory 750 into the recess 712R of the mountingmember 710.

As shown in FIG. 13, in one embodiment, an outer periphery 756 of themale connector 753 comprises at least one groove portion 754. Beforeinserting the male connector 753 into the recess 712R of the mountingmember 710, each groove portion 754 of the male connector 753 is alignedwith a corresponding locking portion 711 of the mounting member 710.Each groove portion 754 of the lighting accessory 750 removably engagesand interlocks with a corresponding locking portion 711 of the mountingmember 710 as the lighting accessory 750 is inserted into the recess712R of the mounting member 710. As such, the locking portions 711 andthe groove portions 754 facilitate fitting, and maintaining in place,the lighting accessory 750 within the recess 712R of the mounting member710.

As shown in FIG. 13, in one embodiment, the outer periphery 756 of themale connector 753 further comprises internal teeth 755. The teeth 755may engage and mate with the serrations 717 of the mounting member 710to interlock the lighting accessory 750 with the mounting member 710.

FIG. 14 illustrates the example lighting accessory 750 in FIG. 13interlocked with the example mounting member 710 in FIG. 12, inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating the mounting system 700, inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention. The mounting system 700further comprises a controller 760, a lighting driver 761, and an A/Vinterface 762. The A/V interface 762 may comprise a graphic display,alphanumeric and directional keypads, or other types of electronic ormanual data input means for setting/programming the lighting elements715. In a further embodiment, the user is provided an application (app)or program module which allows the user to remotely control the lightingelements 715 or the other functionality of the carry bag 410 asdescribed herein.

The controller 760 distributes power received via an electricalconnection 45 to the lighting elements 715. The lighting driver 761controls the lighting effects of the lighting elements 715, such as, forexample, dimming, selective activation, pulsation, color temperature,and so on.

In one embodiment, the lighting elements 715 may be remotely controlledby an electronic device 200 within proximity of the carry bag 410. Forexample, the mounting system 700 may exchange data with the electronicdevice 200 using Bluetooth communication or other forms of wirelesscommunication. In one embodiment, the mounting system 700 furthercomprises a Bluetooth module 763. The Bluetooth module 763 includes awireless transceiver 764 configured to wirelessly exchange informationwith a Bluetooth enabled device using Bluetooth communication. Thetransceiver 764 may wirelessly receive Bluetooth signals from anelectronic device 200 that is within proximity of the transceiver 764.

In one embodiment, the mounting system 700 may be incorporated intoclothing, bags, accessories, wearable technology, etc.

The present invention has been described in considerable detail withreference to certain preferred versions thereof; however, other versionsare possible. The above description is made for the purpose ofillustrating the general principles of the present invention and is notmeant to limit the inventive concepts claimed herein. Further,particular features described above can be used in combination withother described features in each of the various possible combinationsand permutations. Unless otherwise specifically defined herein, allterms should be given their broadest possible interpretation includingmeanings implied from the specification as well as meanings understoodby those skilled in the art and/or as defined in dictionaries,treatises, etc. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claimsshould not be limited to the description of the preferred versionscontained herein.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. Asused herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify thepresence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements,and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of oneor more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements,components, and/or groups thereof.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of allmeans or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended toinclude any structure, material, or act for performing the function incombination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. Thedescription of the present invention has been presented for purposes ofillustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive orlimited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications andvariations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artwithout departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Theembodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain theprinciples of the invention and the practical application, and to enableothers of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention forvarious embodiments with various modifications as are suited to theparticular use contemplated.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus, comprising: a bag shaped forretaining one or more re-chargeable electronic devices; and arechargeable battery unit that is removably attached to the bag, whereinthe battery unit provides power for powering and charging said one ormore electronic devices.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bagcomprises: at least one electrical connection; wherein the battery unitprovides power for powering and charging an electronic device via anelectrical connection interconnecting the battery unit with saidelectronic device.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising: atleast one induction charging unit; wherein each induction charging unitwirelessly provides power for powering and charging an electronic devicepositioned within proximity of said induction charging unit.
 4. Theapparatus of claim 3, wherein: a rechargeable battery of an electronicdevice charges when said electronic device receives power from theapparatus.
 5. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising: an inductivecoupling receiver unit that wireless receives power from an inductioncharging station positioned within proximity of the receiver unit,wherein the power wirelessly received inductively charges the batteryunit.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein: the battery unit inductivelycharges while simultaneously providing power for powering and chargingan electronic device.
 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein: anelectronic device provides power for powering and charging anotherelectronic device while simultaneously receiving power from theapparatus.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a lightingpanel removably attached to the bag; wherein the lighting strip comprisea plurality of lighting elements; and wherein each lighting element isprogrammed a notification indicator for one of the following: anelectronic device retained within the bag, or an electronic devicepositioned within proximity of the bag.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1,further comprising: a display unit attached to the bag; wherein thedisplay unit comprises a display screen including a plurality oflighting elements programmed to display an image.
 10. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising: a mounting system comprising: at least onemounting member attached to the bag, wherein each mounting membercomprises a plurality of lighting elements; and at least one lightingaccessory, wherein each lighting accessory is shaped to detachablyengage and mate with a mounting member to mount said lighting accessoryon to the bag.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein each lightingaccessory includes a translucent portion shaped to form an image,wherein the image is illuminated when lighting elements of a mountingmember mated with said lighting accessory are powered on.
 12. Theapparatus of claim 3, wherein said at least one induction charging unitincludes at least one an on-board induction charging unit disposed onthe battery unit.
 13. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein said at leastone induction charging unit includes at least one induction chargingunit disposed on the bag, wherein each induction charging unit disposedon the bag receives power from the battery unit via one of an electricalconnection interconnecting said induction charging unit with the batteryunit and inductive coupling.
 14. A method, comprising: removablyattaching a battery unit to a bag shaped for retaining one or morere-chargeable electronic devices; and powering and charging said one ormore electronic devices, wherein the battery unit provides power forpowering and charging said one or more electronic devices.
 15. Themethod of claim 12, wherein powering and charging said one or moreelectronic devices comprises: providing power for powering and chargingan electronic device via an electrical connection of the bag, whereinsaid electrical connection interconnects the battery unit with theelectronic device.
 16. The method of claim 13, wherein powering andcharging said one or more electronic devices further comprises:wirelessly providing power for powering and charging an electronicdevice when said electronic device is positioned within proximity of aninduction charging unit disposed on one of the battery unit and the bag.17. The method of claim 14, further comprising: charging a rechargeablebattery of an electronic device when said electronic device receivespower from the battery unit via an electrical connection or an inductioncharging unit disposed on one of the battery unit and the bag.
 18. Themethod of claim 14, further comprising: inductively charging the batteryunit when the battery unit is positioned within proximity of aninduction charging station.
 19. The method of claim 16, wherein: thebattery unit inductively charges while simultaneously providing powerfor powering and charging an electronic device.
 20. The method of claim17, wherein: an electronic device provides power for powering andcharging another electronic device while simultaneously receiving powerfrom the battery unit.
 21. The method of claim 12, further comprising:removably attaching a lighting panel to the bag; wherein the lightingstrip comprise a plurality of lighting elements; and wherein eachlighting element is programmable as a notification indicator for one ofthe following: an electronic device retained within the carry bag, or anelectronic device positioned within proximity of the bag.
 22. The methodof claim 12, further comprising: displaying an image via a display unitattached to the bag; wherein the display unit comprises a display screenincluding a plurality of lighting elements programmed to display theimage.
 23. The method of claim 12, further comprising: mounting alighting accessory to the bag via a mounting member configured to engageand mate with the lighting accessory; wherein the mounting membercomprises a plurality of lighting elements; and wherein the lightingaccessory includes a translucent portion shaped to form an image,wherein the image is illuminated when the lighting elements of themounting member are powered on.